Your Remodeling Headquarters

Interior Design Ideas For 2006
Written by Bronwen Roberts

Where we live and how we live today, reflects our culture and environment. Our homes, now more than ever, are sanctuaries from the harsh realities of the world outside. People tend to spend more time at home, both for work and play. If interior design was once a luxury that few could afford, it is now at the forefront. The space we live in is meticulously considered and no longer a ‘lock up and go' scenario. We want our comfort zone to be beautifully appointed and comfortable - a place where family and friends feel at home, and are treated to an aesthetically pleasing environment. ‘Special' pieces that evoke memories and create a space full of personal history also bring individuality and warmth to a home. However you choose to adorn or decorate your space, it's a worthwhile labour of love.

Colour Trends 2006

Colour trends tend to reflect our current political and social landscape. For 2006, colour is pared down, moving more toward the natural colours of nature as opposed to the bright flashy colours of the 80s, when the fashion was to flaunt. Colours that blend into the surrounding landscape give a house the feeling of being one with the land. Organic colours like warm rock browns and earthy desert hues provide a feeling of homeliness and warmth. Different shades of garden greens that blend with the outside foliage, and warm orange-red sunset tones provide a welcome backdrop on those dismal rainy days. The colour palate for 2006 is all about bringing the beauty of nature inside and allowing her to adorn your home. There is no end to the shades and tones that can enhance and warm up your living space.

The Family Home

The move is definitely towards big open friendly spaces: the airy light feel of a contemporary farmhouse where friends and family can traipse in and out. A family home that is full of character sets the general mood for 2006, taking inspiration from established rural architecture where the farmhouse was built around the needs of the family. In the modern country-house version; grass, sky and trees are viewed through huge panes of glass, a total celebration of nature. Retro items like antique chandeliers and inherited pieces that need a bit of sprucing up can be the focal point of a room, while furnishings in neutral colours are complimented by cushions and throws in velvety textures and rich purple hues.

In apartments, bring the warm colours of nature inside, onto the walls. Make your space bigger by knocking down walls that have no purpose and keep furnishings and clutter down to a minimum. Where possible try and use glass to let the outside in. Whether you're in an apartment or a house - remember to keep it super-natural.

Windows: letting the light in

Design trend when it comes to windows is all about simplicity; no-more layer upon layer of expensive heavy fabrics; window treatments now have a fresher more contemporary look. Retro blinds are wonderful to show off beautiful wooden window framing and still keep prying eyes out. Organza's and voiles provide interesting effects especially when they are layered. Once again, keep the feeling light and airy and let light in.

Design of the Times

Interior design ideas concentrate on sleek, uncluttered lines: furniture that is classic in structure that promotes form, flexibility and functionality. The best furniture investments are the ones that fuse contemporary ideas and technology with classic styling that can adapt to changing needs. Attention to quality and detail still prevail but anything ornamented or fussy is out.

Texture

Texture is an important element in the look for 2006. Everything is defined by texture; on walls, fabrics, wood finishes, and flooring. Design focuses more on tones and weaves than motifs. Natural fabrics and fibres dominate. Threadwork, embroidery and quilting bring back that old world feel. Multiple textures, layer upon layer of colour and texture brighten contemporary neutral backgrounds. Plush luxurious fabrics like velvet and chenille are back as well as beadwork, embroidery and stitching.

Fabrics

Linen, cotton and silks are being incorporated with materials like metal, leather, and suede. Sheers like organza and voiles are being used at length and artificial fibers are no longer visible. Handwork and detailing bring in the elegance of a bygone era with embroidery, printing and ethnic styles creating their own space.

Eclecticism is in, so restore any antique pieces of furniture and place alongside modern pieces with sleek lines. In this ‘modern meets old world' you can mix and match textures to your hearts content. Combine black or dark Prussian blue with gorgeous neutral shades; anything goes as long as the look promotes your individual character. The main theme for interior design 2006 is about reinforcing your individuality.